Man charged with threat to kill father

Barry Alan Joseph Porter (29), of Elaghmore Park, was also charged with making a threat to kill his father on June 14.

The court heard that Porter made an emergency call to police and claimed he was armed with knife. He allegedly told the operator he wanted to take his father’s life and also threatened to harm himself.

On arrival at the scene police saw Porter in the living room brandishing a knife. His father, who had been in bed, had been led from the property by another family member.

An investigating officer told the court police tried to negotiate with Porter who had the knife to his own throat. A large number of beer cans were strewn about.

A specialist unit was tasked to the scene and the knife was eventually taken off Porter, who was very intoxicated and taken to Altnagelvin Hospital, but was discharged a short time later and arrested.

Police opposed bail saying there had been previous domestic incidents and Porter’s behaviour appeared to be escalating.

Defence solicitor Kevin Casey said his client had a long history of difficulties and the incident was a classic cry for help. He said he was attempting to address his issues and has a number of appointments scheduled in the next few weeks.

District Judge Barney McElholm granted conditional bail and banned Porter from contacting his father and from consuming alcohol.

The accused will appear in court again on June 25.